US government unlocks maple syrup funding

Maple syrup producers in the United States – and other organisations who wish to be involved in the industry – have been given a boost, with the announcement of $9.75 million (£7.25 million) in funding.

The Acer Access and Development Program (Acer) and Micro-Grants for Food Security Program (MGFSP) are run by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

These programs will allocate funding to support projects in the American maple syrup sector, with the goal of increasing both the volume and quality of domestic produce. Raising consumer awareness of maple syrup and research and education related to maple syrup production have also been made priorities by the initiative.

Other activities under the Acer program’s remit are to promote sustainable management of maple trees, support market growth for a variety of maple and maple sap products and to encourage the participation of land owners in maple sugaring.

Acer trees are the scientific name for what are commonly known as maple trees; they are famed for their distinctive hand shaped leaves, vibrant autumn colours, and, of course, providing the sap that is used to manufacture maple syrup. The maple leaf appears on both the national flag and coat of arms in neighbouring Canada, where the symbol represents strength and endurance.

The USDA is inviting applications from various organisations within the US, including tribal governments and research institutions.

Communities with high “food insecurity” will be the focus of MGFSP grants, which will back projects that support small scale gardening, herding, livestock operations, and other community-based food security initiatives.